Ayurveda and Science

Bhojpatra/Betula utilis/Bhurjapatra/Himalayan Birch

AYURVEDIC & MEDICINAL PLANTS

Hindi Name: Bhojpatra

Sanskrit Name: Bhurjapatra

English Name: Himalayan Birch

Latin Name: Betula utilis D. Don

A moderate sized tree with papery brownish-white bark found in groups at timberline in Himalayas. The thin layers of bark are used in Ayurveda.

Betula Utilis Medicinal Uses

The papery layer of Birch bark is considered to be highly astringent agent. By virtue of such quality its external use is recommended as styptic (to stop bleeding) and to stop any purulent discharge. Hence it is used more often to clean the wounds. Ayurveda also uses Birch in many formulations for obesity and other disorders of lipid metabolism. It has been described to be effective herb for treatment of obesity.

Chemical Composition

Bark contains an essential oil and betulin.

Effect on

Doshas

Balances thridoshas.
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